
What is Soft Tissue Reconstruction?
Soft tissue reconstruction is a surgical procedure to repair lost or damaged soft tissues (skin, muscle, fat and other soft tissues). This treatment is usually used to repair deformities caused by trauma, burns, tissue loss after cancer surgery, congenital anomalies or aging. Soft tissue reconstruction aims to meet the aesthetic and functional needs of the patient.
Pre-treatment Preparations in Soft Tissue Reconstruction
Preparation for soft tissue reconstruction is crucial for a successful surgery. Preparations may include the following:
- Medical Evaluation: The general health status of the patient is evaluated. Especially conditions such as heart diseases, diabetes, smoking are taken into consideration. If necessary, blood tests and other preliminary evaluations are performed.
- Examination of the Surgical Area: The area to be operated on is examined in detail. The type of tissue to replace the lost or damaged tissue is determined in line with the patient’s needs.
- Talking to the Doctor: The patient has a detailed discussion with the doctor about the purpose of the surgery, risks, expected results and the healing process.
- Smoking and Alcohol Use: Smokers may have a longer recovery period, so they may be asked to stop smoking and drinking alcohol before surgery.
- Anesthesia Assessment: It is decided whether general anesthesia or local anesthesia will be used. The patient is evaluated for suitability for anesthesia.
Recovery Process After Soft Tissue Reconstruction Treatment
The healing process may vary depending on the overall health of each patient and the condition of the treated area. The healing process of soft tissue reconstruction generally includes the following steps:
- Initial Recovery Period: For the first few days after surgery, patients can usually stay in the hospital. During this period, there may be swelling, bruising and pain in the area. Medications may be given for pain management.
- Wound Healing: The stitches placed in the surgical site are usually removed within a week. If the stitches are of the dissolving type, no extra intervention is required.
- Physical Activity Restrictions: Heavy physical activity may need to be avoided for the first few weeks. Once the patient starts doing certain exercises, the healing process can be accelerated.
- Follow-up Appointments: The doctor regularly checks the patient to monitor the healing process. Any complications are checked during this period.
Who is Soft Tissue Reconstruction Suitable for?
Soft tissue reconstruction may be suitable for the following conditions:
- Post Traumatic Tissue Loss: People who have lost soft tissues as a result of accidents, burns or injuries.
- Cancer Surgery: People who have lost tissue after diseases such as breast and skin cancer.
- Congenital Anomalies: Congenital deformities of the face and body.
- Tissue Changes Related to Aging: Those who experience sagging, wrinkles and volume loss due to aging.
- Advanced Aesthetic Interventions: People who want body aesthetics, deformities and contour improvement.
Soft Tissue Reconstruction: How is it performed and what are the results?
Soft tissue reconstruction may vary according to the techniques used. The main reconstruction methods are as follows:
- Tissue Grafting: Skin, muscle, fat or mucosal tissues taken from other areas are placed in the lost or damaged areas.
- Local Flaps: The skin is carried along with the underlying tissues and closed to the wound area.
- Free Flaps: Tissue is taken completely from another area and reconnected with blood vessels.
As a result, patients show significant aesthetic and functional improvements. Successful soft tissue reconstruction provides significant benefits to the patient, both physically and psychologically.
What You Need to Know Before and After Soft Tissue Reconstruction Treatment
- Before: The success rate of the surgery requires clear communication with the doctor about the patient’s general health and the recovery process. It is important to get information about anesthesia, tissue type and the procedure.
- After: Patients can speed up the healing process by following the scars’ healing process, performing certain maintenance or following their doctor’s recommendations. Attention should be paid to scar care after treatment.
Soft tissue reconstruction can provide great aesthetic and functional benefits, but as with any surgical procedure, there are risks. Therefore, a detailed evaluation and expert advice is required before the treatment process.